Ok, so you've decided that you want to play the sax...what now! Which saxophone should I go for?...what model?, soprano?, alto?, tenor?, baritone? These questions, like most things, are personal decisions, but there are many factors to consider and this guide will hopefully help you in your decision making, along with offering various tips and tricks on playing this instrument.

The saxophone is regarded amongst many, as a "easier" instrument to get started on. With a similar fingering to the recorder and its comfortable playing position, beginners can quickly start playing basic melodies. Unlike other instruments like the violin or guitar, no extra-ordinary stretches are required in general playing. Also, unlike the clarinet or recorder, the saxophone has pads that cover and seal the holes, so it is easier to achieve the notes, no accuracy in covering holes with your fingers is necessary. The mechanics can look very complicated...and I suppose they are, but don't be put off, for many people it is a very comfortable instrument to play!...1 added bonus is that it looks very very cool aswell!

WHAT MODEL SHOULD I GO FOR?

Firstly you need to make a practical decision based upon whether or not you're an adult or a child. As an adult, you will find all of the "regular" saxophones, ranging from the soprano to the baritone, will generally fit and feel reasonably comfortable in the hands. A child however, will find the tenor saxophone for example more difficult, if not impossible to play due to the size of the instrument (this of course depends on the age/size of the child).

MOST POPULAR SAXOPHONES:


• Soprano: in the key of Bb
  The soprano is an octave above the tenor and has become very popular recently. Popular within jazz circles and not recommended for beginners due to needing a more controlled embouchure.
• Alto: in the key of Eb
  An octave above the baritone, the alto, along with the tenor, is 1 of the most popular saxophones. A good starting model for beginners and popular within jazz/pop/classical circles.
• Tenor: in the key of Bb
  The tenor is an octave below the soprano and, along with the alto, is 1 of the most popular saxophones. Widely used within jazz/pop circles.
• Baritone: in the key of Eb
  The baritone is an octave below the alto and the largest of the "regular" saxophones. Not recommended for beginners.

Your next decision will be based upon what sound it is you're aiming for. Do you like the tenor sound, the soprano sound or the alto sound?, etc. You'll probably know this, as most people learn the saxophone because they want to play like a musician they like!...so I'll leave this decision to you, baring in mind the problems certain models can give you! The most popular played saxophones are the alto and tenor, although the soprano has become increasingly popular, due to musicians like Kenny G. 1 thing to remember is that once you can master the saxophone, you will be able to play all saxophones, as they all use the same fingering. So, when making your decision, get a good starting point, for example, start on the alto or tenor and then you'll always be able to move on to other models when you've got the hang of things!

A point of interest regarding the family of saxophones is, as mentioned above, that there are other models and styles around. The soprano, for example can come in a straight design, curved bell design and a "regular saxophone design. Some vintage horns have also been made in the key of C, which does away with transposing from the regular Eb and Bb keys. These are pretty rare, but can be found in various quarters. Also other models like the Contrabass, sopranino and bass saxophones are around, however, as they are not nearly as popular as the "regular" models, they aren't talked about as much. Adolph Sax, the inventor of the saxophone, patented his invention in 1846, and since then, many designs have been added and disappeared from what we now know as the family of saxophones! So, I'm sure you'll find some examples of the full range of saxophones in existence today. From classic vintage horns to modern designed saxophones, I'm sure there's 1 just waiting for you to get hold of and start playing!

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